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Is acne a disability?
Under the Equality Act 2010, a condition counts as a disability if it has a substantial (more than minor) and long-term (12 months or more) effect on your normal daily activities. The law looks at how you would be without treatment. A long-term skin condition that affects everyday activities, such as using your hands, sleeping or getting dressed, can be covered. The law also treats a severe disfigurement as having a substantial effect, even if it does not affect what you can do. This may apply to severe acne scarring.
At work
Most people with acne do not need changes at work. It may help to have time off for dermatology appointments. If uniform or equipment, such as masks or helmets, make acne worse, talk to your employer.
Benefits
Acne does not qualify for disability benefits such as PIP. If acne is affecting your mental health, read about depression.
Costs
Under-16s, and 16 to 18 year olds in full-time education, get free prescriptions in England. A prescription prepayment certificate can save money if you need several items. Prescriptions are free in Wales. Try our NHS health costs check.
Sources we used
- GOV.UK, Definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010
- NHSBSA, Prescription prepayment certificates
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